’12 Plates’ raises $1,000 for school arts

The 12 Plates fundraiser was held at Gallery 301 from Nov. 23 to Dec. 7 as a silent auction to raise money for art programs in kindergarten through 12th grade.

More than $1,000 was raised, which helps support the Columbia Gorge Arts in Education grants that can leverage more funding to keep arts in the schools.

Art plate fundraisers have been done in the past at Bite of the Gorge held at the Western Antique Aeroplane & Automobile Museum.

“Arts learning is essential for many students who struggle academically and it’s very valuable for every student,” said Shelley Toon, organizer of the 12 Plates fundraiser along with Scotia Bauer. Artist Sheila Ford Richmond provided the funds for the clay, glazing and firing of the plates.

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McManus is a March 2012 graduate of Columbia High School in White Salmon and now lives in Hood River. She is interested in photography, design and writing. Her photo was taken by Meg Lubinski.